Juwan Howard - Savvy Ring Veteran
Conjuring up memories of bumble bee yellow uniforms, black socks, and Michigan choking in pressure filled moments, the Portland Trailblazers have signed Wolverine alum, Juwan Howard.The Oregonian reports that the 6'9" Howard signed a one-year contract, and will add an additional veteran presence to the young Blazers and provide a savvy and experienced hand to fill the backup power forward position.
All kidding aside, I think this is a GREAT signing for the Blazers. I suppose in a perfect world I'd wish that Howard had a history of being a more physical player (the Blazers continue to lack toughness), but Howard is not above dishing hard fouls and playing smart positional defense.
But Juwan Howard was always the "Hutch" to Chris Webber's "Starsky". A solid, even tempered, play within your limitations type player. Which perhaps is a reason that Howard is still playing in the NBA while Webber is goofing around with Gary Payton. Regardless, the guy has been around the league, has seen a thing or two, is a good locker room guy, and should be a steady and authoritative voice.
Kudos to Kevin Pritchard.
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